2022 Newsletter: Environmental Initiative and Waterways Report
by Sharda Spahr
The MPOA is committed to fostering environmental stewardship. As a part of this effort, you will notice a few changes:
We designed the new logo shown below. When you see this, it indicates that the subject refers to environmental issues.
Several months ago, our landscapers stopped using chemical fertilizers in favor of biological products at the beach park. With its location on the beach and proximity to the waterways, we decided to eliminate these products which negatively affect wildlife and water quality. Following the example of the city’s related pilot program was an important step in helping to preserve two of our biggest assets.
To encourage environmental stewardship by members at the beach park there are a few initiatives to encourage and allow you to do your part:
There are to be no glitter, balloons, paintball guns, tiki torches, Chinese lanterns, or fireworks in the park. The use of styrofoam, plastic straws, and other environmentally unfriendly materials is strongly discouraged. We also ask that you remove all trash when you head out, leaving only footprints.
Members can contribute to a healthier environment by recognizing the importance of shorebirds on our beaches. A number of shorebird species visit Southwest Florida’s beaches both in summer and winter. Migrating shorebirds depend on specific breeding and wintering sites for their survival and reproductive success (AWE). Please, respect shorebirds, give them space, do not disturb them, and encourage your beach neighbors to do the same.
Efforts with our larger community are also making an impact:
The Moorings Bay Citizens Advisory Committee (MBCAC) in partnership with the city of Naples Natural Resources Department is conducting community outreach with residents living along Moorings Bay. We developed a PowerPoint: “How You Can Improve Water Quality and Shoreline Habitats.”
As water quality is important to our quality of life, it’s good to know that we too can do our part. Be vigilant and notify Code Enforcement at (239) 213-5030 or after hours (239) 566-9101 if you see debris or runoff, especially from construction sites, or illicit dumping into the bay. Both can enter the bay through the storm drains and further degrade its water quality.
The “Moorings Bay Water Quality and Biological Analysis Report” was released in late 2021. This study analyzed the results of the monthly and quarterly water quality and biological testing done by the city for Moorings Bay from 2009 through 2021. As a result, the consulting firm made several recommendations designed to improve water quality.
Members joined together in Keep Collier Beautiful 2022 Bay Days Great American Cleanup at our Beach Park to help clean the beaches from Doctors Pass to Lowdermilk Park. Please watch for more beach clean-ups in 2023. For more information, visit https://www.keepcollierbeautiful.com/event/2023-bay-days-great-american-cleanup/
Please, feel free to contact me should you have any questions or would like more information.
BE A GOOD STEWARD - CONSERVE AND PRESERVE.
The full 2022 Newsletter can be found here!